This project was built and designed by Jason from PatriotDIY. It’s a clean and affordable cedar planter box, built to last and perfect for adding style and function to any outdoor space.
These boxes are made from common materials, require only basic tools, and can be completed in a single afternoon. Jason’s approach keeps things simple while still delivering a polished and durable result.
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Why Cedar Works Great for Planters
Cedar is a favorite for outdoor woodworking thanks to its natural resistance to moisture, decay, and insects. This makes it an excellent choice for planters, which are constantly exposed to weather and soil.
Beyond its durability, cedar also looks great—its grain pattern adds warmth, and its aroma makes it pleasant to work with. Jason prefers cedar fence pickets for this project, which are easy to find and cost-effective.
Materials and Tools Overview
The build uses standard cedar fence pickets, along with wood screws, pocket hole joinery, and exterior wood glue. Treated pine can also be used, especially if the planters will be painted instead of stained or left natural.
Jason uses a miter saw for accurate cuts and relies on clamps and a square to keep everything aligned during assembly. A drill, pocket hole jig, and brad nailer make the process smoother but aren’t strictly required.
Prepping the Wood
Fence pickets often have a rough surface, so the first step is sanding them down. This helps with both handling and appearance, especially if you plan to stain or seal the wood later.
Jason preps the boards by cutting them to length using a miter saw. Each piece is labeled or stacked in groups to stay organized throughout the build.
Building the Frame Panels
The frame for each planter side is made of two legs and two horizontal stretchers. The legs add height and stability, while the stretchers tie everything together and provide a base for attaching the side slats.
Pocket holes are drilled into the stretchers for a hidden connection, and each side is assembled with glue and screws. Jason uses clamps to hold everything square while tightening each joint.
Adding Structural Backers
To reinforce the larger sides of the planter, backer pieces are added. These are installed across the stretchers and secured with wood glue and brad nails.
This extra step helps prevent warping and keeps the structure rigid over time. It’s especially helpful if you plan to move the planters once they’re filled with soil.
Final Box Assembly
Once all four panels are assembled, they’re joined together to form the full rectangular frame. The shorter sides fit inside the longer ones, creating a snug, sturdy shell.
Glue and screws are used once again to hold everything together. Jason checks for square at every corner, using clamps where needed to pull everything tight.
Installing the Base Slats
The bottom of the planter box is finished with evenly spaced cedar slats. These rest across the inside and are attached with screws to hold pots or soil without sagging.
The spacing between slats helps with water drainage and airflow. It also reduces material usage while still maintaining support.
Adding a Top Cap
To complete the build, a decorative top cap is added around the upper edges. This involves mitered corner cuts and an even overhang to give the box a finished, professional look.
The cap adds strength and helps hide any small inconsistencies in the top edges. It also makes the planter easier to carry and move around.
Finishing Options
Jason leaves his planter boxes natural, but you can choose to seal, stain, or paint them depending on your style and climate. A clear sealer helps protect the cedar without changing the tone too much.
If you plan to paint, using treated pine might be a better option. Just make sure any finish used is safe for plants and rated for outdoor use.
Why Build Your Own Planters?
Making your own planter boxes saves money compared to buying premade options. It also lets you customize the size, height, and finish to fit your space and needs.
More importantly, it’s a rewarding project that gives you something useful for years to come. Whether you’re filling them with herbs, flowers, or vegetables, you’ll enjoy knowing you built them yourself.
Please support Jason by visiting his Etsy Store: https://www.etsy.com/shop/patriotdiy.